Job Description
A well-established precision engineering subcontractor in Birmingham is seeking an experienced CNC Programmer / Setter to join a busy machine shop. You will work across a range of multi-axis milling and turning platforms, taking components from raw material through to finished part — programming offline, proving on the floor, and optimising cycle times to meet tight delivery schedules.
The business supplies customers across automotive, aerospace, and defence sectors, producing complex, low-volume and medium-batch components in steel, aluminium, titanium, and nickel alloys. This is a hands-on role with genuine scope to influence process and tooling decisions.
Machinery you will work on
Mazak Integrex i-400
Multi-tasking mill-turn, Mazatrol SmoothX control
DMG Mori NLX 2500
CNC turning centre, MAPPS V / Fanuc 31i control
Mazak Variaxis i-600
5-axis VMC, Mazatrol SmoothX, full simultaneous
Doosan DNM 6700
3-axis vertical machining centre, Fanuc 0i-MF
Citizen Cincom L20
Swiss-type sliding head lathe, Fanuc 32i control
XYZ 2-OP / ProTURN
Portable VMC and manual-assist turning, ProtoTRAK
CAM & software
Offline programming using Mastercam 2024 (milling and turning) — experience with multi-axis toolpaths (simultaneous 5-axis, swarf, steep & shallow) essential
On-machine programming in Mazatrol SmoothX and Fanuc conversational; ability to hand-edit G-code and M-code directly at the control
Renishaw on-machine probing and tool-setting cycles (RMP60 / OLP40)
Solid modelling in SolidWorks or similar for DFM feedback and fixture design
Tooling management via Zoller presetter data integration
Key responsibilities
Write, prove, and optimise CNC programs for milling, turning, and mill-turn operations from customer CAD models and 2D drawings
Set and change-over machines including tool assembly, offsets, work coordinates, and probing routines
Select cutting tools, inserts, and parameters — working closely with Sandvik and Kennametal technical reps
Carry out first-off inspection using Mitutoyo CMM and hand gauging; complete route cards and inspection records to AS9100 / IATF 16949 requirements
Reduce cycle times through feeds, speeds, and toolpath strategy improvements — track and report cycle time savings
Support junior operators and apprentices, providing on-the-job guidance on setups and machining technique
Liaise with the estimating team to provide realistic cycle time and tooling cost inputs for new enquiries
Essential experience
Minimum 4 years of CNC programming and setting in a precision subcontract environment
Proven ability on multi-axis turning and milling (4th / 5th axis); mill-turn experience highly desirable
Fluent in Fanuc G-code; Mazatrol experience advantageous
Proficient with Mastercam or equivalent offline CAM (SolidCAM, GibbsCAM, or HyperMill considered)
Ability to read and interpret engineering drawings including GD&T to BS EN ISO 1101
Machining of exotic materials: titanium (Ti-6Al-4V), Inconel 718, 17-4PH stainless
Time-served apprenticeship or NVQ Level 3 in Engineering Manufacture preferred
Package
Salary
£38,000 – £46,000
depending on experience
Shift
Days
Mon – Thurs 7:30–16:00, Fri 7:30–13:00
Overtime paid at x1.33 Mon–Sat, x1.5 Sunday
33 days annual leave (including bank holidays)
Company pension — employer contribution 5%
Training budget for CAM software upskilling and tooling courses
Free on-site parking